Venezuela Hit by Powerful Quakes, Death Toll Expected to Rise

Venezuela is grappling with the aftermath of powerful back-to-back earthquakes that struck Wednesday evening, leaving at least 32 people dead and over 700 injured. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez declared a state of emergency, cautioning that the casualty figures are expected to climb as rescue operations continue in devastated areas. The twin quakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, caused significant damage across several states, with dozens of buildings collapsing in La Guaira, described as a "disaster zone" and the hardest-hit region. Intensive rescue efforts are underway to save lives amidst the rubble. The earthquakes, among the strongest to hit Venezuela in over a century, were felt as far away as Brazil's Amazon. Infrastructure damage includes the closure of Simón Bolívar International Airport, the country's main air hub, and the cancellation of subway and natural gas services in Caracas. School classes have been suspended for several days, with some buildings designated as shelters and donation centers. International assistance has been offered by numerous countries, including the United States, Argentina, and Brazil, with the US mobilizing a disaster assistance team and task force to coordinate aid.

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Dozens of buildings have collapsed there, about 30 kilometers (19 miles) north of Caracas, and we are currently carrying out intensive rescue operations to save lives.